Blackhawks forward Sharp 'progressing'

Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp has begun skating as he recovers from an emergency appendectomy performed Sept. 12.

The veteran skated by himself Sunday and is expected to do so again the next two days before the Hawks can get an assessment on when he will join practices with teammates.

"(Sharp's) progressing," coach Joel Quenneville said. "I think he’s feeling good. He was out there a little bit (Sunday) and will do the same (Monday) and (Tuesday) and we’ll get a better indication after that how close he is to jumping on with us."

Quenneville said the Hawks were "hopeful" Sharp will be in the lineup when the regular season kicks off Oct. 7 against the Stars in Dallas.

If he does, Sharp could line up at wing. After playing center much of the last few seasons, Quenneville said the veteran could move back to his natural position of wing.

"We'll probably likely start (Sharp) on the wing," Quenneville said.

With that in mind, Patrick Kane practiced at center during Monday's practice with Marian Hossa and Andrew Brunette as his wingers.

"I didn’t mind it," Quenneville said of Kane's move from right wing. "They all have good anticipation, good patience with the puck, see plays, can make plays and finish in that tight area. We’ll see how that works itself out. We’ll try it in a game or two. Hopefully that could work."